External orange loop tag indicating fish has an internal transmitter that can be returned for $100 reward. (DNR photo)

Staff from the U.S. Geological Survey, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources and the Great Lakes Acoustic Telemetry Observation System have initiated large-scale telemetry studies to determine walleye and lake whitefish movement in and around Green Bay.

Researchers will implant transmitters into 300 walleye and 400 lake whitefish this fall. These transmitters are black cylinders that are surgically implanted into the fish and periodically send out a coded signal that is detected by acoustic receivers.

This research will provide important information regarding seasonal movements of these fish and help determine which spawning locations contribute to fisheries that target these two species.

“DNR staff are excited to work closely with a number of partners to conduct research that will help us better understand the habitat preferences and movements of walleye and whitefish,” said Tom Meronek, DNR fisheries management. “Data gathered will provide important information to help sustain these critical fisheries into the future.”

More than 150 acoustic receivers have been deployed to “listen” for tagged fish in and around Green Bay. Tags will allow tracking of fish for up to four years. In addition to acoustic tags, small temperature sensors will be placed into the fish to better understand water temperature preferences.

All fish will also be tagged with an external orange loop tag (pictured), indicating a $100 reward for return of the internal tag. Recovered internal transmitters can be implanted in another fish to continue tracking efforts.

If one of these tagged fish is legally harvested, we ask that anglers do not freeze the fish and call 715-346-2178 or email dan.isermann@uwsp.edu to receive the reward and coordinate the tag’s return.